Newcastle have named former Wimbledon and Luton Town manager Joe Kinnear as their interim boss, initially until the end of October.

The shock appointment, made after Kevin Keegan quit the club, follows news that Terry Venables turned down the role over concerns about job security.

The Magpies have been without a manager since Keegan departed, slumping to three defeats under Chris Hughton.

Kinnear revealed his delight at being handed the task of taking charge at St James' Park.

"I am very excited about the challenge in front of me at Newcastle United," said Kinnear.

"Results have not been great of late, but there is a lot of quality in the squad and I am very confident the players are capable of climbing the league table.

"Newcastle United is a great club. When I was in charge of Wimbledon I always remember the passion of the fans up there and how great a stadium St. James' Park is.

"It is a big challenge but one I am really looking forward to."

The 61-year-old left Forest in December 2004 after a poor start to the season, despite having kept the club up in the previous season.

He is best remembered for his spell in charge of Wimbledon in the 1990s, leading them to sixth in the league in 1994.

It is expected that Kinnear will be in charge on Tyneside for the next six to eight games.